Chris Hayes to ride for Fozzy Stack Chris Hayes has been appointed as first stable jockey to Fozzy Stack, who will take over the reins at Thomastown Castle from his father Tommy next year. The position became available after Wayne Lordan recently decided to join Aidan O'Brien's team of riders at Ballydoyle. Hayes, 29, joined Kevin Prendergast in 2004 and his first Group One arrived when La Collina won the Matron Stakes in September 2013. Seven days later he had his first Classic success when Voleuse De Coeurs won the Irish St Leger. He landed a second Irish Classic when Awtaad scored in the Irish 2,000 Guineas this year. “I am looking forward to working with Chris after the Dubai Carnival and hopefully we’ll have some good times together,” Fozzy Stack told the Irish Independent. “He was champion apprentice three times, which is a rare achievement, and is a Classic winning rider. “Billy Lee, who had a brilliant season, will stay on in some capacity too and he will be used as Chris will still have the choice to ride for Kevin Prendergast when he so wishes.” Fozzy will take over the training next season after working most of his life alongside his highly respected father, Tommy. He is hopeful about the new season while still remaining realistic. “It’s a work in progress and I am looking forward to it, while very thankful to the owners I have for their support. As ever, you’re looking for nice horses. Dad might be retired but he is certainly not gone away and he will play a key role.”
